Although always a optional extra, lens coatings are usually recommended in order to ensure the preservation of your new prescription lenses and that they provide you with the highest protection possible. As always, an informed shopper is an empowered shopper, so here’s the lowdown on lens coatings so that you can decide exactly what you need when buying your new eyeglasses.
Anti-Scratch Coating: The main aim of this coating is to protect your lenses for increased longevity. No eyeglasses will ever be completely scratch-proof but when lenses are treated on either side with a clear and hard coating, their longevity and resistance to scratches increases. This type of coating provides more protection against misuse but if you choose this option, do not think that your glasses are fully protected. Always put your glasses a hard clam shell case when you’re not using them and only clean them with the microfiber cloth.
The UV Protective Coating protects your eyes against the sun’s harmful ultra violet rays. Overexposure to the sun increases vision problems including the development of cataract. This coating acts as a sunscreen for your eyeglass lenses, which in turn will cover and protect your eyes without affecting the look of of the lenses at all.. Some eyeglass materials, such as polycarbonate, photochromic, and most high-index plastic lenses, have 100 percent UV protection built-in, so an extra lens treatment is not required for these lenses.
If you need to reduce glare, Premium Anti-Reflective Coating is recommended for night driving and computer usage. The coating is done in layers, with each layer specifically calculated to block reflected light. These coatings sometimes have a hint of green or purple coloring because of the layering effect. Reflections are eliminated and eyeglass lenses look thinner or non-existent, making your eyes more visible for better eye contact with others. Anyone being photographed or seen on camera would benefit greatly from such a coating.
Most premium anti-reflective coatings include a “hydrophobic” surface layer that prevents water spots from forming and makes the lenses easier to clean but beware – some solvents may harm the lens coating.
Photochromic lenses, otherwise known as their commercial term “Transitions” lenses, are specialized light adjusting lenses. While not generally available in Polycarbonate and in 1.74 high index lenses, they are a fantastic option because they adapt and transition into sunglasses when outside and back into regular eyeglasses with clear lenses indoors – all with the purpose of protecting your eyes again UV rays.
Finally, color tint lenses are generally used for sunglasses and are specifically manufactured with lenses that protect against sun but not against ultra violet light. They are great for people with light sensitivity or people who want sunglasses. These can either be bought with a non-prescription eyeglass lenses and worn in addition to contact lenses; or bought with prescription lenses placed in a pair of glasses frames so that your sunglasses are also a full optical tool. Should you choose this option, make sure you have an anti-glare coating placed on the inside of the lens and a UV protective coating surrounding the lens for optimum protection.
So, there you have it! Five coatings all summed up for you so that you can buy glasses that really work for you and include all the extras that fit your individual needs.
Hillary Glaser is the Director of Marketing and Special Projects for eyeglassespro.com – the easiest way to buy glasses online. She over sees day-to-day operations for all marketing and promotions of eyeglasses for the company.